Exercise apparatus with a vibration system

ABSTRACT

One exercise apparatus with a vibration system comprises a platform, a first pulley, a second pulley, and a continous conveyor belt. Another exercise apparatus with a vibration system comprises a base, a center portion, and a first and second platform attached to a respective platform arm. A drive pulley system is configured to drive each platform in a reciprocating vertical path. Another exercise apparatus with a vibration system comprises a base and a fly-wheel. A first and second linkage arm are each rotably connected to the flywheel and a respective slide arm. A first and second user arm are rotably connected to a neck shaft and respective slide arm so that the slide arms and linkage arms travel in reciprocating arcuate paths. A vibration generator is mounted to each apparatus and configured to transmit vibrations to the respective exercise surface.

This application claims priority to U.S. provisional patent application No. 61/608,593 entitled “Treadmill with Vibrating Platform” which was filed Mar. 8, 2012. The contents of this United States provisional patent application are incorporated herein by reference in its entirety as if set forth verbatim.

FIELD

The following description relates generally to exercise equipment, and in particular to treadmills, steppers, and elliptical exercise apparatuses.

BACKGROUND

Electric treadmills are one of the most popular types of modern exercise equipment and are now commonplace both in gyms and in home exercise rooms. Treadmills typically include a platform with a conveyor belt that moves from front to back. A user stands on the treadmill platform and must match the speed of the conveyor belt by walking or running forward. In simple treadmills the conveyor belt is unpowered and only moves if a user is walking or running on it. More commonly, however, the conveyor belt is powered by an electric motor connected to a user interface at the front of the treadmill. The user can control the speed of the conveyor belt, and therefore the speed the user is required to walk or run, by setting the motor speed on the user interface.

Over the years many different features and enhancements have been incorporated into this basic treadmill design in order to improve the quality and variety of exercise a treadmill provides the user. For example, the user interface may be connected to a programmable motor controller that allows the user to set up exercise routines in which the speed of the conveyor belt follows a preset pattern. The user may program the treadmill to automatically start at a relatively low speed and slowly accelerate to a higher speed without requiring the user to adjust any settings while running. Additionally, the user interface may allow the user to set the motor controller to a random setting in which the speed of the conveyor belt may periodically change in order to increase the difficulty of the exercise routine.

Modern treadmills also commonly incorporate an adjustable incline for the conveyor belt. Typically the conveyor belt is inclined from back to front so as to simulate walking or running uphill. In some treadmills the incline of the conveyor belt is adjusted manually by the user. However, more commonly the incline of the conveyor belt is adjusted using a second motor connected to a lead screw or jack that allows the user to increase or decrease the conveyor belt incline via the user interface of the treadmill.

Thus, treadmill enhancements such as adjustable conveyor belt speed and adjustable conveyor belt incline allow the user to control the difficulty of an exercise routine. Further, these enhancements help a user to simulate outdoor walking/running in which the user's route may include constantly varying inclines and speeds. However, a common complaint of treadmills is that the walking or running is not realistic because at any given time the conveyor belt is moving at a constant speed and fixed incline. Some users therefore become disengaged with the activity because each step is the same as the last. Accordingly, there is a need for a treadmill that provides a user with a more engaging and unpredictable exercise experience.

Electrical steppers are another type of modem exercise equipment commonly found in both gyms and home exercise rooms. Steppers typically include abuse, user support rails, a pulley system, and a platform for each foot configured to move in a vertical reciprocating path of motion. The motion is reciprocating because each platform moves back and forth vertically such that as each platform travels up, the other platform travels down. This vertical reciprocating path of motion for each platform moves in such a way to simulate climbing stairs. Accordingly, a user stands on the stepper by placing a foot on each platform and the user must match the speed of the moving platforms and thus simulate the action of walking up stairs. In simple steppers without power, the platforms are arranged so that when one platform moves up, the other platform moves down. More sophisticated motorized steppers, however, have a pulley system that is powered by an electric motor connected to a user interface at the front of the stepper. This motor controls the movement of the platforms in an essentially reciprocating vertical motion. By adjusting the speed on the user interface, the user can control the speed at which the platforms move, and therefore the speed the user is required to step.

Over the years, many different features and enhancements have been incorporated into this basic stepper design in order to improve the quality and variety of exercise a stepper provides the user. For example, the user interface may be connected to a programmable motor controller that allows the user to set up exercise routines in which the speed of the moving platforms follows a preset pattern. The user may program the stepper to automatically start at a relatively low speed and slowly accelerate to a higher speed without requiring the user to adjust any settings while exercising.

The user may also program the stepper to incorporate a certain amount of resistance to automatically start a routine at an easier resistance and gradually accelerate to a more difficult resistance without requiring the user to adjust any settings. Additionally, the user interface may allow the user to set the motor controller to a random setting in which the speed of the conveyor belt may periodically change in order to increase the difficulty of the exercise routine.

Thus, enhancements to steppers such as variable platform speed and resistance allow the user to control the difficulty of an exercise routine. Further, these enhancements help a user to simulate climbing up stairs in which the user's routine may include constantly varying resistance levels and speeds. However, a common complaint of steppers is that the workout routine is not realistic, because at any given time the conveyor belt is moving at a constant speed and fixed resistance unless the user affirmatively interacts with the machine to manipulate these features. Some users therefore become disengaged with the activity, because each step is the same as the last. Accordingly there is a need for a stepper that provides a user with a more engaging and unpredictable exercise experience.

Finally, elliptical exercise apparatuses are another popular type of modern exercise equipment commonly found in gyms and home exercise rooms. An elliptical exercise apparatus typically includes a horizontal base, a flywheel, drive arms, linkage arms, slide arms, user arms, and platforms wherein each slide arm and linkage arm is configured to move in a reciprocating arcuate path of motion. It is understood that a reciprocating arcuate path of motion is a repetitive backward and forward path of motion where the forward and backward path of motion essentially overlap as opposed to a closed curved path of motion.

Accordingly, a user will stand on the elliptical exercise apparatus by placing a foot in each platform that is mounted on a respective slide arm and the user must then match the speed of each moving platform by sliding her feet along the reciprocating arcuate path. In simple elliptical exercise apparatuses, movement of the platforms is done without power such that when one platform moves forward, the other platform moves backwards, in a reciprocating arcuate path of motion. More commonly, however, the platforms are powered by an electric motor that is connected to a user interface on a support neck at the front of the elliptical exercise apparatus. By adjusting the speed on the user interface, the user can control the speed at which the platforms slide and therefore the speed the user is required to slide during the exercise.

Over the years, many different features and enhancements have been incorporated into this basic elliptical exercise apparatus design in order to improve the quality and variety of exercise the apparatus provides the user. For example, the user interface may be connected to a programmable motor controller that allows the user to set up exercise routines in which the speed the platforms slide or the user arms move follows a preset pattern. The user may program the elliptical exercise apparatus to automatically start at a relatively low speed and slowly accelerate to a higher speed without requiring the user to adjust any settings while exercising.

The user may also program the elliptical exercise apparatus to incorporate a certain amount of resistance to automatically start a routine at an easier resistance and gradually accelerate to a more difficult resistance without requiring the user to adjust any settings. Additionally, the user interface may allow the user to set the motor controller to a random setting in which the speed at which the platforms slide may periodically change in order to increase the difficulty of the exercise routine.

Thus, enhancements for elliptical exercise apparatuses such as variable platform slide speed and variable resistance allow the user to control the difficulty of an exercise routine. Further, these enhancements help a user to simulate sliding, wherein the user's routine may include constantly varying resistance levels and speeds. However, a common complaint of elliptical exercise apparatuses is that the workout routine is not realistic, because at any given time the platforms slide or the user arms move at a constant speed and fixed resistance unless the user affirmatively interacts with the machine to manipulate these features. Some users therefore become disengaged with the activity because each sliding movement is the same as the last. Accordingly, there is a need for an elliptical exercise apparatus that provides a user with a more engaging and unpredictable exercise experience.

Additionally, in recent years it has become well-established that instability is an effective tool for strengthening core muscles. For example, a person standing on an unstable platform, such as a platform with a partially spherical or round bottom, must constantly engage core muscles such as abdominal, leg and chest muscles, to maintain balance. On treadmill, stepper, and elliptical exercise apparatuses, by contrast, users are not presented with any unexpected variables that throw the user off balance and require engagement of core muscles to maintain balance. Accordingly, there is a need for treadmills, stepper, and elliptical exercise apparatuses that include features that may disrupt the user's balance and require the user to actively engage core muscles.

SUMMARY

The following simplified summary is provided in order to provide a basic understanding of some aspects of the claimed subject matter. This summary is not an extensive overview, and is not intended to identify key/critical elements or to delineate the scope of the claimed subject matter. Its purpose is to present some concepts in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later.

In one aspect of the disclosed embodiments such as a treadmill, an exercise apparatus with a vibration system includes a platform with a front end and a rear end. A first pulley is mounted inside the platform adjacent to the front end of the platform, and a second pulley is mounted inside the platform adjacent to the rear end of the platform. A continuous conveyor belt is looped around the first pulley and the second pulley. A vibration generator is configured to transmit vibrations to the continuous conveyor belt to form a vibrating exercise surface. A user interface may also be connected to the vibration generator to allow a user to modify a frequency of vibration of the continuous conveyor belt.

In another aspect of the disclosed embodiments, a treadmill with vibrating platform includes a platform with a front end and a rear end. A first pulley is mounted inside the platform adjacent to the front end of the platform, and a second pulley is mounted inside the platform adjacent to the rear end of the platform. A continuous conveyor belt is looped around the first pulley and the second pulley to provide the platform with a top surface that is movable between the front end and the rear end of the platform. A vibration generator is mounted to the platform and imparts vibrations to the top surface of the platform. A user interface is connected to the vibration generator to allow a user to modify a frequency of vibration of the top surface of the platform.

In another aspect of the disclosed embodiments such as a stepper, an exercise apparatus with a vibration system includes a horizontal base with a front end and a rear end. A center portion is mounted to the horizontal base. The center portion has a left side, aright side, and a top. Further, the center portion extends vertically from the horizontal base to the top. A first platform arm is disposed on the left side and mounted to the center portion. A first platform arm is mounted to the first platform arm. A second platform arm is disposed on the right side and mounted to the center portion. A second platform is mounted to the second platform arm. A drive pulley system is mounted to the center portion and is adapted to drive each of the first and second platforms in a reciprocating vertical path between the horizontal base and the top of the center portion. The drive pulley system comprises a drive shaft that is disposed adjacent to the top. A drive pulley is rotably connected to the drive shaft. A first resistance belt is disposed on the left side of the center portion adjacent to the horizontal base. A second resistance belt is disposed on the right side of the center portion adjacent to the horizontal base. A guide pulley is mechanically connected to each of the first and second resistance belts. The drive pulley system further comprises a speed input shaft that is disposed adjacent to the front end and a speed pulley that is rotably connected to the speed input shaft. A first platform belt is mechanically connected to the first platform arm, the drive pulley, and the first resistance belt. A second platform belt is mechanically connected to the second platform arm, the drive pulley, and the second resistance belt. The drive pulley system further comprises a continuous conveyor belt that is looped around the drive pulley and the speed pulley. A vibration generator is mounted to the horizontal base and is configured to transmit vibrations to the exercise apparatus. A user interface is connected to the vibration generator to allow a user to control the vibrations transmitted to the exercise apparatus.

In another aspect of the disclosed embodiments such as an elliptical, an exercise apparatus with a vibration system comprises a horizontal base with a front end and a rear end. A neck with a top is mounted to the horizontal base adjacent to the front end so that the neck extends vertically from the base to the top. A neck shaft with a slide axis defined thereupon is mounted to the neck adjacent to the top. A flywheel is mounted to the horizontal base adjacent to the rear end wherein the flywheel has a common axis defined thereupon, a left side, and a right side. A first linkage arm comprises a first drive end that is disposed adjacent to the common axis. The first linkage arm also comprises a first slide end wherein the first linkage arm is disposed on the right side of the flywheel and is rotably connected to the flywheel at the first drive end. Accordingly, the first slide end travels in a reciprocating arcuate path about the common axis of the flywheel. A second linkage arm comprises a second drive end that is disposed adjacent to the common axis. The second linkage arm also comprises a second slide end wherein the second linkage arm is disposed on the left side of the flywheel and is rotably connected to the flywheel at the second drive end. Accordingly, the second slide end travels in a reciprocating arcuate path about the common axis of the flywheel. A vibration generator is mounted to the horizontal base and is configured to transmit vibrations to the exercise apparatus. A user interface is connected to the vibration generator to allow a user to control the vibrations transmitted to the exercise apparatus.

The vibration generator is any apparatus capable of imparting vibrations to the relevant exercise surface, and in particular to the continuous conveyor belt of the described treadmill embodiment. In an embodiment such as the treadmill, the vibration generator may be directly or indirectly mounted to the platform. In another embodiment such as the stepper or the elliptical, the vibration generator may be directly or indirectly mounted to the first or second platform. In some embodiments, the vibration generator may include a motor that drives a flywheel with asymmetric mass distribution so that rotation of the flywheel imparts rapidly oscillating forces to any object to which the motor is mounted. For example. The vibration generator may be directly or indirectly mounted to the first pulley of the treadmill embodiment so that the vibration generator imparts vibrations to the first pulley and consequently to the continuous conveyor belt. Similarly, the vibration generator may be directly or indirectly mounted to the second pulley so that the vibration generator imparts vibrations to the second pulley and consequently to the continuous conveyor belt.

In other embodiments, the vibration generator can incorporate a crank and an actuating rod in a mechanism similar to a crank rod and piston rod in an internal combustion engine. For example, the actuating rod may be movable only along its longitudinal axis and move back and forth along this axis in response to forces imparted to it by the motor via the crank rod. By attaching one end of the actuating rod, directly or indirectly, to the platform, pulleys or conveyor belt of the treadmill embodiment, vibrations are thereby imparted to the conveyor belt. Alternatively, in the stepper embodiment, by attaching one end of the actuating rod, directly or indirectly, to the first and second platform, the center portion, the drive pulley, or the guide pulley, vibrations are thereby transmitted to the moving platforms. Finally, in the elliptical embodiment, by attaching one end of the actuating rod, directly or indirectly, to the platforms, the flywheel, the linkage arms, the slide arms, or the user arms, vibrations are thereby transmitted to the moving platforms and or the moving user arms.

It is to be understood that the vibration generator may take many different forms and may be mounted in various locations on the embodiments described. For example, the vibration generator may be integral with the first pulley or with the second pulley of the treadmill embodiment. Similarly, the vibration generator may be integral with the conveyor belt or the platform of the same. In another embodiment such as a stepper, the vibration generator may be integral with the horizontal base or the center portion. The vibration generator may also be integral with other parts of this embodiment including the first or second platform arms, the first or second platforms, the drive pulley, or the guide pulley. In another embodiment such as the elliptical, the vibration generator may be integral with the horizontal base or the flywheel. Further, the vibration generator may be integral with the first or second platforms, the first or second slide arms, the first or second linkage arms, or the first or second user arm.

To the accomplishment of the foregoing and related ends, certain illustrative aspects are described herein in connection with the following description and the annexed drawings. These aspects are indicative, however, of but a few of the various ways in which the principles of the claimed subject matter may be employed and the claimed subject matter is intended to include all such aspects and their equivalents. Other advantages and novel features may become apparent from the following detailed description when considered in conjunction with the drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a side view of one embodiment of a treadmill with vibration system.

FIG. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of one embodiment of a treadmill with vibration system.

FIG. 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view of one embodiment of a vibration system.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a stepper exercise apparatus with a vibration system.

FIG. 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view of one embodiment of a stepper exercise apparatus with a vibration system.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of one embodiment of an elliptical exercise apparatus with a vibration system.

FIG. 7 is a schematic view of one embodiment of an elliptical exercise apparatus with a vibration system.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

An exercise apparatus with a vibration system includes a platform with a front end and a rear end. A first pulley is mounted inside the platform adjacent to the front end of the platform, and a second pulley is mounted inside the platform adjacent to the rear end of the platform. A continuous conveyor belt is looped around the first pulley and the second pulley. A vibration generator is configured to transmit vibrations to the continuous conveyor belt to form a vibrating exercise surface. A user interface may also be connected to the vibration generator to allow a user to modify a frequency of vibration of the continuous conveyor belt. These general features will be described in further detail below with reference to the figures.

FIG. 1 shows a side view of one embodiment of a treadmill with vibration system. Treadmill 10 includes base 12 and upright portion 14. Base 12 includes platform 20 which has front end 22 and rear end 24. Platform 20 also includes upper surface 26 which incorporates a continuous conveyor belt 30. When treadmill 10 is in use, conveyor belt 30 moves continuously in a loop so that the portion of conveyor belt 30 exposed at upper surface 26 of platform 20 moves from front end 22 to rear end 24. Upright portion 14 of treadmill 10 includes handlebars 40 supported by neck 42. User interface 44 may also be incorporated into upright portion 14 of treadmill 10.

FIG. 1 shows a side view of a treadmill with vibrating platform. Treadmill 10 includes base 12 and upright portion 14. Base 12 includes platform 20 which has front end 22 and rear end 24. Platform 20 also includes upper surface 26 which incorporates a movable conveyor belt 30. When treadmill 10 is in use, conveyor belt 30 moves continuously in a loop so that the portion of conveyor belt 30 exposed at upper surface 26 of platform 20 moves from front end 22 to rear end 24. Upright portion 14 of treadmill 10 includes handlebars 40 supported by neck 42. User interface 44 may also be incorporated into upright portion 14 of treadmill 10.

FIG. 2 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of treadmill 10, focusing on base 12 and in particular platform 20. Platform 20 is used as a foundational structure for mounting front pulley 32 and rear pulley 34 around which conveyor belt 30 is threaded. Additionally, vibration generator 50 is mounted to platform 20 and operatively coupled with conveyor belt 30 so as to impart vibrations to conveyor belt 30.

In another aspect of the disclosed embodiments such as a stepper, an exercise apparatus with a vibration system includes a horizontal base with a front end and a rear end. A center portion is mounted to the horizontal base. The center portion has a left side, a right side, and a top. Further, the center portion extends vertically from the horizontal base to the top. A first platform arm is disposed on the left side and mounted to the center portion. A first platform arm is mounted to the first platform arm. A second platform arm is disposed on the right side and mounted to the center portion. A second platform is mounted to the second platform arm. A drive pulley system is mounted to the center portion and is adapted to drive each of the first and second platforms in a reciprocating vertical path between the horizontal base and the top of the center portion.

The drive pulley system comprises a drive shaft that is disposed adjacent to the top. A drive pulley is rotably connected to the drive shaft. A first resistance belt is disposed on the left side of the center portion adjacent to the horizontal base. A second resistance belt is disposed on the right side of the center portion adjacent to the horizontal base. A guide pulley is mechanically connected to each of the first and second resistance belts. The drive pulley system further comprises a speed input shaft that is disposed adjacent to the front end and a speed pulley that is rotably connected to the speed input shaft. A first platform belt is mechanically connected to the first platform arm, the drive pulley, and the first resistance belt. A second platform belt is mechanically connected to the second platform arm, the drive pulley, and the second resistance belt. The drive pulley system further comprises a continuous conveyor belt that is looped around the drive pulley and the speed pulley.

A vibration generator is mounted to the horizontal base and is configured to transmit vibrations to the exercise apparatus. A user interface may be connected to the vibration generator to allow a user to control the vibrations transmitted to the exercise apparatus. These general features will be described in further detail below with reference to the figures.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a stepper exercise apparatus with a vibration system 200. Stepping exercise apparatus 200 includes horizontal base 212, a plurality of upright handrails 240, and at least one support beam 214. Horizontal base 212 includes a front end 222 and a rear end 224 and the plurality of handrails 240 are mounted to the base. While this embodiment shows one support beam, there may be more than one support beam in other embodiments. Center portion 220 is shown mounted to the horizontal base 212 having a top 223, and a left side 221 (right side 219 is not shown because it is behind center portion 220). Center portion 220 is shown extending from the horizontal base 212 to the top 223. A first platform 225 is mounted to a first platform arm 227 and the center portion 220 on the left side 221.

A drive pulley system 226 is also mounted to the center portion 220. When the stepper exercise apparatus with a vibration system 200 is in use, the drive pulley system 226 is adapted to drive the first platform 225 and the second platform 237 (not shown because it is behind the center portion 220) in a reciprocating vertical motion between the horizontal base 212 and top 223. A user interface 244 may also be incorporated into the plurality of upright handrails 240.

FIG. 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view of one embodiment of a stepper exercise apparatus with a vibration system 200, focusing on horizontal base 212 and in particular center portion 220. Center portion 220 is shown mounted to the horizontal base 212 having a top 223 and a left side 221. A first platform 225 is attached to a first platform arm 227 that is mounted to the center portion 220. A drive pulley system 226 is mounted to the center portion 220 and is adapted to drive the first platform 225 in a reciprocating vertical motion between the horizontal base 212 and top 223. In this embodiment, the drive pulley system 226 comprises a drive pulley 250 that is mounted to a drive shaft 251 that is disposed adjacent to the top 223. The drive pulley system 226 also includes a guide pulley 252. The guide pulley 252 is mechanically connected to the first resistance belt 253 which is disposed adjacent to the horizontal base 212.

The drive pulley system 226 depicted in FIG. 5 includes a speed pulley 254 that is mounted to a speed input shaft 255. The speed input shaft 255 is disposed adjacent to the front end 222 above the guide pulley 252. A first platform belt 260 is mechanically connected to the first platform arm 227, the drive pulley 250, and the first resistance belt 253. The first resistance belt 253 in this embodiment is a tension spring but could also be an elastic band. The first platform belt 260 in this embodiment is a chain made of steel but material could change according to design need. A continuous conveyor belt 270 is looped around the drive pulley 250 and the speed pulley 254. The drive pulley 250 and the speed pulley 254 in this embodiment are each sprockets with teeth that mechanically connect with the conveyor belt 270 which in this embodiment is a chain.

When the stepper exercise apparatus with a vibration system 200 is in use, first 225 and second platforms 237 move back and forth vertically such that when first platform 225 travels upwards, second platform 237 travels downwards so as to simulate the vertical reciprocating motion of a user climbing stairs. Further, when stepper exercise apparatus with a vibration system 200 is in use, vibration generator 50 is mounted to the horizontal base 212 and operatively coupled with the first platform arm 227 so as to transmit vibrations to the first platform 225. While not depicted, vibration generator 150 may similarly operatively connect to apparatus 200. In that embodiment, actuating rod 156 operatively connects to a desired element, as described further below, in order to transmit vibrations to the desired exercise surface. Vibration generator 150 has an actuating rod 156 that operatively couples to the desired element, as described further below, in order to transmit vibrations to the desired exercise surface.

In another embodiment, vibration generator 50 mounts to stepper exercise apparatus with a vibration system 200 and transmits vibrations to the desired exercise surface by rigidly mounting motor 52 to horizontal base 212 as described further below. Though not depicted, n this embodiment the vibration generator 50 may be integral with the horizontal base 212., the center portion 220, the second platform arm 217, the second platform 237, the drive pulley 250, or the guide pulley 252.

In another aspect of the disclosed embodiments such as an elliptical, an exercise apparatus with a vibration system comprises a horizontal base with a front end and a rear end. A neck with a top is mounted to the horizontal base adjacent to the front end so that the neck extends vertically from the base to the top. A neck shaft with a slide axis defined thereupon is mounted to the neck adjacent to the top. A flywheel is mounted to the horizontal base adjacent to the rear end wherein the flywheel has a common axis defined thereupon, a left side, and a right side.

A first linkage arm comprises a first drive end that is disposed adjacent to the common axis. The first linkage arm also comprises a first slide end wherein the first linkage arm is disposed on the right side of the flywheel and is rotably connected to the flywheel at the first drive end. Accordingly, the first slide end travels in a reciprocating arcuate path about the common axis of the flywheel. A second linkage arm comprises a second drive end that is disposed adjacent to the common axis. The second linkage arm also comprises a second slide end wherein the second linkage arm is disposed on the left side of the flywheel and is rotably connected to the flywheel at the second drive end. Accordingly, the second slide end travels in a reciprocating arcuate path about the common axis of the flywheel.

A vibration generator is mounted to the horizontal base and is configured to transmit vibrations to the exercise apparatus. A user interface may also be connected to the vibration generator to allow a user to control the vibrations transmitted to the exercise apparatus. These general features will be described in further detail below with reference to the figures.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of one embodiment of an elliptical exercise apparatus with a vibration system 300. Elliptical exercise apparatus with a vibration system 300 includes a horizontal base 312 with a front end 322 and a rear end 324. A neck 313 with a top 323 is mounted to the horizontal base 312 adjacent to the front end 322. The neck 313 extends vertically from the horizontal base 312 to the top 323. A neck shaft 314 is mounted to the neck 313 adjacent to the top 323 of the neck 313. The neck shaft 314 also has a slide axis 380 defined thereupon. A flywheel 352 with a left side 306, a right side 305, and a common axis 320 defined thereupon is mounted to the horizontal base 312 adjacent to the rear end 324.

A first linkage arm 360 comprises a first drive end 362 disposed adjacent to the common axis 320 and a first slide end 364. The first linkage arm 360 is disposed on the right side 305 of the flywheel 352 and is rotably connected to the flywheel 352 at the first drive end 362. The first slide end 364 travels in a reciprocating arcuate path about the common axis 320 as understood above. A second linkage arm 361 is not depicted in FIG. 6 because it is disposed on the left side 306 of the flywheel 352 and thus behind it. The second linkage arm 361 is described in more detail below. A second slide arm 367 comprises a second platform 369, a second forward end 371 that is adjacent to the second slide end 365, and a second aft end 373. The second slide arm 367 is rotably connected to the second linkage arm 362 at the second slide end 365. Further, a second user arm 375 has a second user end 385 that is adjacent to the second aft end 373 and a second neck end 387 (not shown as it is behind neck 313 in this view) so that the second user end 385 travels in a reciprocating arcuate path about the slide axis 380 as understood above. A user interface 344 may also be incorporated into the neck 313.

As depicted in FIG. 6, the flywheel 352 is rotably connected to the first 360 and second 361 linkage arms. The flywheel 352 serves to increase the kinetic mass of the exercise apparatus with a vibration system 300. In other embodiments, the flywheel 352 may be eliminated or replaced by similar apparatuses including fluid-based apparatuses such as paddles or fans. The flywheel 352 could also be replaced by electromagnetic drags. To incorporate features such as resistance into the exercise routine, adjustable mechanical, electrical, magnetic, or electromagnetic resistances can also be included.

FIG. 7 is a schematic view of one embodiment of an elliptical exercise apparatus with a vibration system 300, focusing on horizontal base 312 and in particular when first slide end 364 and second slide end 365 are extended in the reciprocating arcuate path of motion about common axis 320 of flywheel 352. A horizontal base 312 is shown with front end 322 and rear end 324. Neck 313 is shown mounted to the horizontal base 312 and has a top 323 such that the neck 313 extends from the horizontal base 312 to the top 323. First linkage arm 360 has first drive end 362 and first slide end 364 and is disposed on the right side 305of the flywheel 352. Second linkage arm 361 has second drive end 363 and second slide end 365 and is disposed on the left side 306 of the flywheel 352. Both first 360 and second linkage arms 361 are rotably connected to flywheel 352 at first 362 and second drive end 363 respectively. As shown in FIG. 7, first 364 and second slide end 365 are adapted to travel in a reciprocating arcuate path of motion about common axis 320.

First slide arm 366 comprises first platform 368, first forward end 370, and first aft end 372. As demonstrated, the first slide arm 366 is rotably connected to the first linkage arm 360 at the first slide end 364. Second slide arm 367 has second platform 369, second forward end 371, and second aft end 373 such that he second slide arm 367 is rotably connected to the second linkage arm 361 at the second slide end 365. Each platform in the embodiment of FIG. 7 is adapted to receive and support a human foot. A platform may be planar, non-planar, curved, and adjustable automatically or manually. Neck shaft 314 has a top 323 and a slide axis 380 defined thereupon and is mounted to neck 313 adjacent to the top 323.

First user arm 374 comprises a first user end 384 that is adjacent to the first aft end 372 and a first neck end 386. The first user arm 374 is rotably connected to neck shaft 314 at the first neck end 386 and is rotably connected to the first slide arm 366 at the first user end 384. Second user arm 375 comprises a second user end 385 that is adjacent to the second aft end 373 and a second neck end 387. First 374 and second user arm 375 may also comprise a first 396 or second upright handrail 395, each mechanically connected to a respective user arm so as to provide further support or grip to the user or to transmit more vibrations into the exercise routine. The second user arm 375 is rotably connected to neck shaft 314 at the second neck end 387 and is rotably connected to the second slide arm 367 at the second user end 385.

This configuration allows first 384 and second user end 385 to travel in a reciprocating arcuate path about the slide axis 380 of the neck shaft 314. FIG. 7 further depicts vibration generator 50 directly mounted to horizontal base 312 so that vibration generator 50 is configured to transmit vibrations to the first 368 and/or second platforms 369. While not depicted, vibration generator 150 may also connect to horizontal base 312. In that embodiment, actuating rod 156 operatively connects to a desired element, as described further below, in order to transmit vibrations to the desired exercise surface.

In another embodiment, vibration generator 50 mounts to stepper exercise apparatus with a vibration system 200 to transmit vibrations to the desired exercise surface by rigidly mounting motor 52 to horizontal base 312 as described further below. While not depicted, in this embodiment the vibration generator 50 may be integral with horizontal base 312, flywheel 352, first 368 or second platforms 369, first 366 or second 367 slide arms, first 360 or second 361 linkage arms, or first 374 or second 375 user arms.

In one embodiment, vibration generator 50 includes motor 52, drive shaft 54 and asymmetric flywheel 56. Motor 52 is rigidly mounted to platform 20. Drive shaft 54 is rigidly connected to motor 52 and asymmetric flywheel 56. When motor 52 is activated, motor 52 drives drive shaft 54 and causes it to rotate. The rotation of drive shaft 52 causes asymmetric flywheel 56 to also rotate. Due to the asymmetric mass distribution of asymmetric flywheel 56, rotation of asymmetric flywheel 56 creates vibrations with a frequency proportional to the rotation rate. These vibrations are transmitted through drive shaft 54 to motor 52.

Because motor 52 is rigidly mounted to platform 20, the vibrations are also transmitted to platform 20 and any structures mounted to platform 20. Accordingly, the vibrations generated by vibration generator 50 are transmitted to front pulley 32, rear pulley 34 and conveyor belt 30. Another option is to incorporate vibration generator 50 into front pulley 32 or rear pulley 34. In this embodiment, motor 52 may be used to drive front pulley 32 or rear pulley 34 and consequently conveyor belt 30. As vibration generator 50 includes asymmetric flywheel 56, vibrations are directly transmitted to conveyor belt 30 at a frequency proportional to the rotation rate of asymmetric flywheel 56.

In another embodiment not depicted where vibration generator 50 mounts to the stepper exercise apparatus with a vibration system 200, motor 52 is rigidly mounted to first 225 and or second platform 228. In this embodiment, the vibrations generated by vibration generator 50 are transmitted to speed pulley 254, guide pulley 252, first platform belt 260, second platform belt 261, first resistance belt 253, second resistance belt 254, and conveyor belt 270. In another embodiment, there may be more than one vibration generator 50 or stepper exercise apparatus with a vibration system 200 may also incorporate vibration generator 150 in addition to vibration generator 50 in order to transmit vibrations to multiple surfaces simultaneously pursuant to design needs or user preference.

In another embodiment not depicted where vibration generator 50 mounts to the elliptical exercise apparatus with a vibration system 300, motor 52 is rigidly mounted to first 368 or second platform 369. In this embodiment, the vibrations generated by vibration generator 50 are transmitted to flywheel 352, first 366 and/or second slide arm 367, first 360 and/or second linkage arm 361, and first 374 and/or second user arm 375. In another embodiment, there may be more than one vibration generator 50 or elliptical exercise apparatus with a vibration system 300 may also incorporate vibration generator 150 in addition to vibration generator 50 in order to transmit vibrations to multiple surfaces simultaneously pursuant to design needs or user prefernce.

In all embodiments, a user standing, walking or running on conveyor belt 30, climbing first 225 and/or second platform 228, sliding on first 368 and/or second platform 369, or pushing and/or pulling first 374 and/or second user arm 375 will feel the vibrations and must react by using balance leg, and core muscles to maintain stability. This increased effort required to maintain stability helps to increase the intensity of any exercises performed on the above described exercise apparatuses.

In another embodiment shown schematically in FIG. 3, vibration generator 150 includes motor 152 drive shaft 154, crank 155 and actuating rod 156. Crank 155 has a first end rigidly connected to drive shaft 154 and a second end hingedly connected to actuating rod 156. The first end of actuating rod 156 is hingedly connected to the second end of crank 155. The second end of actuating rod 156 is constrained to only permit movement along a linear path. Further actuating rod 156 is operatively coupled to platform 20 or conveyor belt 30.

As depicted in FIG. 3, as motor 152 causes drive shaft 154 to rotate, crank 155 also rotates. The hinged link between crank 155 and actuating rod 156 causes reciprocating movement of the second end of actuating rod 156. In particular, the second end of actuating rod 156 moves in a reciprocating linear path, making one complete traverse of the linear path for every rotation of crank 156.

In another embodiment not depicted where the vibration generator 150 operatively connects to the stepper exercise apparatus with a vibration system 200, the actuating rod 156 may be operatively coupled to horizontal base 212, center portion 220, first platform 225, first platform arm 227, second platform 228, second platform arm 229, drive pulley 250 or guide pulley 252. By operatively coupling the second end of actuating rod 156 to platform 20, front pulley 32 or rear pulley 34 of the treadmill exercise apparatus with a vibration system. The second end of actuating rod 156 may also operatively couple to base 212, center portion 220, first platform 225, first platform arm 227, second platform 228, second platform arm 229, drive pulley 250, guide pulley 252 of the described stepper exercise apparatus with a vibration system.

In another embodiment not depicted where the vibration generator 150 operatively connects to the elliptical exercise apparatus with a vibration system 300, the actuating rod 156 may be operatively coupled to base 312, flywheel 352, first platform 368, second platform 369, first slide arm 366, second slide arm 367, first linkage arm 360, second linkage arm 361, first user arm 374, or second user arm 375. The second end of actuating rod 156 may also operatively couple to base 312, flywheel 352, first platform 368, second platform 369, first slide arm 366, second slide arm 367, first linkage arm 360, second linkage arm 361, first user arm 374, or second user arm 375 of the described elliptical exercise apparatus with a vibration system. In all embodiments, vibrations are transmitted from vibration generator 150 to the desired exercise surface.

One of the main advantages of the disclosed embodiments is the addition of vibration and instability into workout routines for treadmills, ellipticals, and steppers. When standing, walking running, stepping, or using an elliptical exercise apparatus but with vibrations, a user must employ muscles and movements not normally used in conventional machine exercises. In particular, the user must employ leg and core muscles to maintain lateral stability against the vibrations. The use of these muscles may be subconscious as the user is constantly required to maintain balance despite the vibrations. Accordingly, the incorporation of vibrations into a treadmill, elliptical, and stepper exercise apparatus permits more intense and comprehensive exercises.

What has been described above includes examples of one or more embodiments. It is, of course, not possible to describe every conceivable combination of components or methodologies for purposes of describing the aforementioned embodiments, but one of ordinary skill in the art may recognize that many further combinations and permutations of various embodiments are possible. Accordingly, the described embodiments are intended to embrace all such alterations, modifications and variations that fall within the spirit and scope of the appended claims. Furthermore, to the extent that the term “includes” is used in either the detailed description or the claims, such term is intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term “comprising” as “comprising” is interpreted when employed as a transitional word in a claim. 

1. An exercise apparatus with a vibration system, comprising: a platform with a front end and a rear end; a first pulley mounted inside the platform adjacent to the front end; a second pulley mounted inside the platform adjacent to the rear end; a continuous conveyor belt looped around the first and the second pulley; and a vibration generator mounted to the platform. 3-22. (canceled)
 23. An exercise apparatus with a vibration system, comprising: a horizontal base with a front end and a rear end; a center portion mounted to the base with a left side, a right side, and a top, wherein the center portion extends vertically from the horizontal base to the top; a first platform arm disposed on the left side and mounted to the center portion; a first platform mounted to the first platform arm; a second platform arm disposed on the right side and mounted to the center portion; a second platform mounted to the second platform arm; a drive pulley system mounted to the center portion, wherein the drive pulley system is adapted to drive each of the first and second platforms in a reciprocating vertical path between the horizontal base and the top of the center portion, the drive pulley system comprising: a drive shaft disposed adjacent to the top; a drive pulley rotably connected to the drive shaft; a first resistance belt disposed on the left side of the center portion adjacent to the horizontal base; a second resistance belt disposed on the right side of the center portion adjacent to the horizontal base; a guide pulley mechanically connected to each of the first and second resistance belts; a speed input shaft disposed adjacent to the front end; a speed pulley rotably connected to the speed input shaft; a first platform belt mechanically connected to the first platform arm, the drive pulley, and the first resistance belt; a second platform belt mechanically connected to the second platform arm, the drive pulley, and the second resistance belt; a continuous conveyor belt looped around the drive pulley and the speed pulley; and a vibration generator mounted to the base. 24-50. (canceled)
 51. An exercise apparatus with a vibration system, comprising: a horizontal base with a front end and a rear end; a neck with a top, wherein the neck is mounted to the horizontal base adjacent to the front end, and wherein the neck extends vertically from the horizontal base to the top; a neck shaft mounted to the neck adjacent the top of the neck, wherein the neck shaft has a slide axis defined thereupon; a flywheel mounted to the horizontal base adjacent to the rear end, wherein the flywheel has a common axis defined thereupon, a left side and a right side; a first linkage arm comprising a first drive end disposed adjacent to the common axis and a first slide end, wherein the first linkage arm is disposed on the right side of the flywheel and is rotably connected to the flywheel at the first drive end, and wherein the first slide end travels in a reciprocating arcuate path about the common axis; a first slide arm comprising a first platform, a first forward end adjacent to the first slide end, and a first aft end, wherein the first slide arm is rotably connected to the first linkage arm at the first slide end; a first user arm comprising a first user end adjacent to the first aft end, and a first neck end, wherein the first user arm is rotably connected to the first slide arm at the first neck end, wherein the first user arm is rotably connected to the neck shaft at the first neck end, and wherein the first user end travels in a reciprocating arcuate path about the slide axis; a second linkage arm comprising a second drive end disposed adjacent to the common axis and a second slide end, wherein the second linkage arm is disposed on the left side of the flywheel and is rotably connected to the flywheel at the second drive end, and wherein the second slide end travels in a reciprocating arcuate path about the common axis; a second slide arm comprising a second platform, a second forward end adjacent to the second slide end, and a second aft end, wherein the second slide arm is rotably connected to the second linkage arm at the second slide end; a second user arm comprising a second user end adjacent to the second aft end, and a second neck end, wherein the second user arm is rotably connected to the second slide arm at the second neck end, wherein the second user arm is rotably connected to the neck shaft at the second neck end, and wherein the second user end travels in a reciprocating arcuate path about the slide axis; a vibration generator mounted to the horizontal base. 52-96. (canceled)
 97. The exercise apparatus of claim 1, wherein the vibration generator comprises: a motor; a drive shaft mechanically connected to the motor; a crank with a first end and a second end, wherein the crank is mechanically connected to the motor, and wherein the first end of the crank is rigidly connected to the drive shaft; an actuating rod with a longitudinal axis, wherein the actuating rod is movable along its longitudinal axis, and wherein the second end of the crank is hingedly connected to the actuating rod; wherein the motor causes the drive shaft and the crank to rotate; and wherein when the crank rotates, the second end of the actuating rod moves in a reciprocating linear path; wherein the vibration generator is configured to transmit vibrations to the continuous conveyor belt to form a vibrating exercise surface.
 98. The apparatus according to claim 97, further comprising a user interface operatively connected to the vibration generator, wherein the user interface is configured to allow a user to control vibrations transmitted to the continuous conveyor belt.
 99. The apparatus according to claim 98, further comprising an upright portion mechanically connected to the continuous conveyor belt, the upright portion comprising a neck mechanically connected to a plurality of handlebars, wherein the user interface is disposed on the upright portion.
 100. The apparatus according to claim 97, wherein the vibration generator is directly or indirectly mounted to the continuous conveyor belt.
 101. The apparatus according to claim 97, wherein the vibration generator is integral with the front pulley, rear pulley, or continuous conveyor belt.
 102. The exercise apparatus of claim 1, wherein the vibration generator comprises: a motor; a drive shaft mechanically connected thereto; an asymmetric flywheel with asymmetric mass distribution, wherein the motor rotates the drive shaft causing the asymmetric flywheel to rotate and impart rapidly oscillating forces resulting from the asymmetric mass distribution; wherein the vibration generator is configured to transmit rapidly oscillating forces to the continuous conveyor belt.
 103. The apparatus according to claim 102, wherein the vibration generator is mounted to the front pulley or the rear pulley.
 104. The exercise apparatus of claim 23, wherein the vibration generator comprises: a motor; a drive shaft mechanically connected to the motor; a crank with a first end and a second end, wherein the crank is mechanically connected to the motor, and wherein the first end of the crank is rigidly connected to the drive shaft; an actuating rod with a longitudinal axis, wherein the actuating rod is movable along its longitudinal axis, and wherein the second end of the crank is hingedly connected to the actuating rod; wherein the motor causes the drive shaft and the crank to rotate; and wherein when the crank rotates, the second end of the actuating rod moves in a reciprocating linear path; wherein the vibration generator is configured to transmit vibrations to the exercise apparatus.
 105. The apparatus according to claim 104, further comprising a user interface operatively connected to the vibration generator, wherein the user interface is adapted to allow a user to control vibrations transmitted to the exercise apparatus.
 106. The apparatus according to claim 105, further comprising a plurality of upright handrails mechanically connected to the base, the plurality of upright handrails comprising at least one support beam mechanically connected to the plurality of handrails, wherein the user interface is disposed on the plurality of upright handrails.
 107. The apparatus according to claim 106, wherein the vibration generator is configured to transmit vibrations to the plurality of handrails.
 108. The apparatus according to claim 104, wherein the vibration generator is directly or indirectly mounted to the first or second platform.
 109. The exercise apparatus of claim 23, wherein the vibration generator comprises: a motor; a drive shaft mechanically connected thereto; an asymmetric flywheel with asymmetric mass distribution, wherein the motor rotates the drive shaft causing the asymmetric flywheel to rotate and impart rapidly oscillating forces resulting from the asymmetric mass distribution; wherein the vibration generator is configured to transmit rapidly oscillating forces to the exercise apparatus.
 110. The exercise apparatus of claim 51, wherein the vibration generator comprises: a motor; a drive shaft mechanically connected to the motor; a crank with a first end and a second end, wherein the crank is mechanically connected to the motor, and wherein the first end of the crank is rigidly connected to the drive shaft; an actuating rod with a longitudinal axis, wherein the actuating rod is movable along its longitudinal axis, and wherein the second end of the crank is hingedly connected to the actuating rod; wherein the motor causes the drive shaft and the crank to rotate; and wherein when the crank rotates, the second end of the actuating rod moves in a reciprocating linear path; wherein the vibration generator is configured to transmit vibrations to the exercise apparatus.
 111. The apparatus according to claim 110, further comprising a user interface operatively connected to the vibration generator, wherein the user interface is adapted to allow a user to control vibrations transmitted to the exercise apparatus.
 112. The apparatus according to claim 110, wherein the vibration generator is directly or indirectly mounted to the first or second platform.
 113. The exercise apparatus of claim 51, wherein the vibration generator comprises: a motor; a drive shaft mechanically connected thereto; an asymmetric flywheel with asymmetric mass distribution, wherein the motor rotates the drive shaft causing the asymmetric flywheel to rotate and impart rapidly oscillating forces resulting from the asymmetric mass distribution; wherein the vibration generator is configured to transmit rapidly oscillating forces to the exercise apparatus. 